Chippewa 50K 2021 = Covid Style

 I was so happy when RD Jeff stated that the 2021 Chippewa 50K Race would be taking place. He did such a magnificent job with Mindy Creek Marathon last August, I knew that  Chippewa would be much the same. Chippewa would take place over three days, 50 runners each day. How sweet is that!  I had entered last year so entered again for a Saturday slot.

Because Chippewa is only 2.5 hours from home I've never spent the night near the race; I prefer to sleep in my own bed and head out early. I arrived to the race course at 730 with plenty of time to collect my things as well as  myself for the 800 start.  I wouldn't need  a drop bag or anything, everything I needed would be on my back. It as so weird not seeing so many great friends that I normally see at this race. Some ran Friday, some were running Sunday. What a weird weird year, albeit much better than last. 

I packed my hydration vest, collected my bib and a very nice sweatshirt that I had preordered, said hello to Jeff and Patrice, a few others and went back to my car to await the start of the race.

Feeling Euphoric

At 800 Jeff told us to go so off we went. It was raining, near 40F and windy. I chose shorts, a long sleeved top and a windbreaker which I removed and put back on 3-4 times during the race to keep off rain, snow and ice. There was a little bit of everything along the course!  The trail was in great shape, not very muddy, mostly dry and soft. 

Each time that I have  run Chippewa I realize that I forgot how beautiful it was.  The course is a constant roll of hills, all singletrack, next to many many pot hole lakes which come right up to the trail. The lakes are clear so that I am able to see the rocks and water life through the glassiness of the water. Much of the trail is laden with soft pine needles, there is a blue heron rookery along the course and many bridge water crossings. The Ice Age Trail is truly beautiful. There are a few campsites along the way and one of these days I'm going to camp along the route. I'd love to spend more time picking my way through, taking in more of the views and then nestling in my sleeping bag under the stars.

I found myself swelling up with gratitude and admiration of the trail, ( my eyes teary, my nose running) of the outdoors, of nature, of God.  It was overwhelming and at times I found myself getting emotional. I tried to pinpoint the reasons why and all I could come up with was how happy I was to be right there, at that moment, taking in the fresh air, the dirt, the lakes, my body moving strong and healthy. My mind happy. It was hard to put words to. I think that because for the first half of my life this is something I was never able to do, nor anything that was within my wildest dreams of doing..it was difficult to walk, much less run. Here I was, running for fun, for peace of mind, for health of body. I was in awe of it all and so grateful that after 25 years running is still such a joy.

Into the first aid station at 5 or so miles I didn't need anything. I thanked Patrice and continued on. I began to reflect on the other Chippewa 50Ks I had participated in.  This would be my 5th Chippewa. My first one wasn't until 2011 as I ran 6 x the  McNaughton 100 Trail Run the week before so would volunteer at Chippewa instead. I remembered that my first Chippewa run was a few months past the radical hysterectomy I had. It was hard for me to get my breathing under control during that race. I remembered that it took me over 7 hours. I remembered 2018 was the first race after injury and an 18  month recovery.  Ugh. What a lesson in patience and letting go that was! That race was a gift to me, I knew I'd make a come back. I also remembered it was over 8 hours (806). So many memories upon this trail. 

Running into the second aid station at 10 miles I was feeling euphoric. I didn't need anything, just ran through and said thanks. I began to chide myself for feeling so good. I couldn't hold it in. I was euphoric and bubbling over with joy. I passed a few runners in the driving rain, hearing comments back that I was enjoying myself too much. I really was.

As I climbed up the hills I found a strength I haven't always had. I was able to run up the hill, crest it and run back down. I felt strong.  I came into the  turn around, emptied my gel trash and just turned right around as I didn't need anything here, either. I'd get water at 24 miles. 

Running fast (for me), over the roots and up the hills, a man that I came upon called me 'hill master' I had to chuckle. Hills have never been my strength. He was very kind. As I ran on I began to catch those that were ahead of me at the turnaround. The runners were kind as I ran past, commenting on my smile, my attitude, my pace. I responded to a runner that I only have one pace 'steady'. He told me he had gone out too fast and was suffering for it. He told me he could learn a lesson on pacing from me, that I was so strong.  I told him, quite honestly, that I don't have to worry about going out too fast...I didn't have that bone. He told me I was killing it. Another asked me if I was part goat as I  passed him on a hill.. I've never heard such complimentary things as I've run past others.  This was a nice, a very nice change of events. I thought back to some of the negative / crazy things I heard from  some of the Zumbro runners two weeks ago  and reminded myself not to take those things so personally or seriously.

Still euphoric, I ran into the mile 24 ish aid station to fill my bladder. I was ready to hit the last 10 miles and see if I could keep this euphoria, this steady run.

Running past hikers, dogs I stopped to pet and talk to, coming upon runners that I was able to pass, it was really something. It was such a treat. The rain stopped and a flicker of sun came out across the trail. I raised my arms and let out a sound of pure joy.

I began to count down the miles, thinking I might make this run under 7 and possibly, my best Chippewa 50K time, whatever that was as I really didn't know.  As I hit the last 2 mile mark I looked at my watch. I still had time to hike up the last blasted hill to the finish line. I might do this. Running hard, I came up to the hill, put my body into hiking mode and made it to the top, running into the finish.

6:53. I didn't know then that this was in fact my best Chippewa time. The finish time didn't make this such a joyous run. The run, the landscape, the breath of my lungs, the movement of my body, the calm of my mind, the joy. It was intense. So intense. All of these things made this such an incredible day.

When I arrived home I was recounting the day to my son, Tyler. I tried to put to words how much I enjoyed ultrarunning, how much joy I had felt upon my run. I couldn't find the words, I couldn't find the explanation. It just is. It. Just. Is.  I feel so blessed.

Zumbro.. 2021 Covid Version

I have quite a few Zumbro race reports on this blog. They go back to the first Zumbro Fat Asses in the early 2000s, through the races and up to this past weekend.

If you click on the Zumbro label on the far right side a whole lot of Zumbro will show up!

Zumbro was cancelled last year due to Covid, was cancelled in 2019 and 2018 due to blizzards. I last ran the 50 M in 2014 when it rained and hailed. The final rain measure was 7" in 12 hours. Crazy for sure.

2021 Zumbro had a different format. Both a 17 mile and 34 mile option were offered. I signed up for the 34 and was so excited to get down there. Covid races this year have been a silver lining during a dark dark time. The races are small, there are no spectators or lavish aid stations and many hours are spent running upon the trail, alone. Definitely my jam.

The race would take place over 4 days with only 100 or entrants per day. I signed up for Saturday at 800AM.

I left home by 5AM and arrived to the race start at 740. I had enough time to change, pack my hydration pack and start my day. I very easily walked up to the start, squeeled with delight at seeing some friends whom I haven't seen in a very long time, heard shouts of GO JULIE as I started my day, running across the start line with a huge smile on my face. I don't think I stopped smiling the remainder of the day!

As I ran  along the course it became apparent to me that this course was very similar to the old fat ass runs Larry would mark out for us so many years ago. I would come across certain lookouts and recall certain memories with old friends. A lookout that John and I stepped off of the trail to witness, a path that Rick and I ventured down, a conversation that I had with Bonnie. So many emotions. Many additional climbs were added to the course and there was the nice flat road section to open up the hips and let 'er rip! It felt good to run a few 10 minute miles after all of the slow miles slogging through all of the mud.

Oh, the mud!  The course was covered with mud. Some of the soils were wet clay like, sucking shoe mud, as I tried to stay upright, calling upon my core to keep me steady. I didn't fall,  just kept on trudging forward.

I came into the first aid station and nearly broke into tears when I saw Donny Clark helping out. Don helped me run my first 50K training run at Afton State Park in 2001. It was great to reconnect again, it's been a while. Covid has put a lot of time and space between so many of us. 

At the next aid station I saw Bill and Chris, so great to see their friendly faces again, too!  I refilled my pack with water and moved on toward the finish of loop 1. 4 more miles of road to go for the first lap.

I came into start/finish at 3:55, feeling really great. Heard others holler out my name and encouragement, giving me a lift.  I ran into the start and ran back out. I didn't have a drop bag and didn't need more water. I was out on the second loop, smiling all of the way. The second pass around seemed to go more quickly, mentally. I had settled down, knew what was coming up, was finding my run nice and relaxed and was feeling fabulous. As I climbed a super hilly section I removed a PB&J sandwich from my pack and had lunch. My stomach was growling and wanted real food. I had been consuming a gel each hour, and drank 200 calories of Tailwind the first loop. I wasn't feeling Tailwind for the second, I'd stick with water. 

I came upon Brian and Joshua and ran a few miles with them, then opened up on the last section to the finish line and ran as fast as I could. I thought I may make 8 hours but I came into the finish at 803. Pretty darn close. I ran hard into the finish, I left it all out there. 

It was so great to see a handful of people that I haven't been able to see this past year or more. I lingered as long as I dared and then headed for home, basking in joy and a deep deep sense of gratitude. I'm so thankful to John and Cheri, all of the volunteers and the runners at Zumbro. What a delicious day!

16th Bloggerversary Post!

 Ah, 16  years ago I began this blog. It's difficult for me to believe that 16 years have come and gone but they certainly have. I turned 56 years old a few weeks ago, we rang in 2021. What a year 2020 was. 

I had an absolutely delightful birthday week. Runs with friends, runs alone, time with family, 11 days off from work..truly delightful.

My body is healthy-I capped off last week running with a total of 65 miles and feeling strong. I haven't run that mileage since 2016 when my body retaliated after Voyageur 50 miler. 

I'm in a good place. I'm listening to my body. I'm spending time outside with those whose company I enjoy. That's living life!

Awesome 13.5 mile run with friends on New Year's Day. 

A fabulous vegan loaf of bread for my birthday gift :)

Friends on my Birthday run!

2020 was very difficult with COVID taking over the world, upon my family and friends but I've hung in there, I've trusted in God and am coming through on the other side. That's all I can do.

Cheers to 2021!  We don't know what it will bring, but we can continue to be kind and take care of ourselves. 

Wild Duluth 50K

Wild Duluth lived up to her wild name!  A few days before the race the weather reports were looking dicey. Lots of snow, freezing rain and wind. It was going to be an interesting day.

Due to Covid restrictions we were going to have a staggered start between 7 -10 AM, only 10 to a bus, no aid other than water at aid stations. Masks at start/finish/water stations. I was so excited to be able to run WD again. So grateful to the Holak's for allowing us to run.

I spent Friday night at Fitgers. I usually stay at Fitgers when not driving up race day. It's quiet, clean and I can always pick up last minute supplies at Trail Fitters. I picked up some gloves this visit.

Saturday morning I headed for Bayfront Festival Park to make my 630 AM bus departure, for a 700 start time wave. It was a beautiful morning. I had many layers packed into my hydration vest along with a PB&J, gels, sweet potato and rice. I was all set. 

I lined up with one other person at the start and Andy yelled go!  Off we went. In the darkness I could see the big wet flakes slowly falling to the ground.

My headlamp was only necessary for 30 or so minutes. I removed it and placed it into my pack. I was very comfortable in fleece tights, long sleeved medium weight top and light jacket, gloves and ear band. I pulled up my mask when I came upon a few runners, passing. The sunrise was gorgeous, making the snow flakes shimmer orange. Beautiful.

Every so often I stopped to take a few photos. The St Louis River, the large pine forest, the foggy lake. Spectacular.  

I felt good. Well rested, strong, enjoying each step. I noticed the snow was sticking to the ground, alarmingly so. I thought with the warmed ground that it would melt on contact. Not so. It was piling up on the grassy areas, the rocks and the boardwalks. The boardwalks were pretty trecherous.

As I ran along through the day a few of the faster runners from the later waves would catch and pass me, but for the most part it was a very quiet day. I was deep in thought, fully immersed in a day by myself, running away from the world and it's problems. 

The snow began to pile up. 3" in total by the end of the race. 

I came into mile 16 and was filling up my bladder which was empty. I had drained it during the first 4 hours. As I was filling it up, Doug Barton walked up. He was volunteering while Maria ran. It was good to see Doug, a friendly recognizable face, even through his facemask!  Maria began an hour after me so I never did see her out there. That was the only bummer of the race-with Covid and all of the precautions were weren't able to see one another nor hang out at the finish. It was so good that they took all of the precautions though, so that we could race.

I said goodbye to Doug and continued to scamper along the trail. The freezing rain began to fall. I could feel my arms were beginning to get wet. I didn't feel like stopping to pull my windbreaker out of my pack. I ran on. 

The beautiful trail. My quads were starting to get tired at about mile 27, a few  miles to the finish. I reflected on how grateful I was to check out of real life for a day and just enjoy myself, running down the trail. 

Eventually I popped onto pavement, following the next few miles to the finish. I felt tears upon my cheeks, trying to hold back. I couldn't. I was so happy and feeling such gratitude.

Pulling on my mask I came into the finish. I again saw Doug (yay), collected my shirt and cup, gave a million thanks to Kim and headed for my car. I drove home, smiling all of the way.

No pain, no tiredness, no low points. Just one hell of a lovely day to run.

Up next: Chesterwoods 50K November 8.

...And The Cholesterol Numbers Are In!

I have been struggling with high cholesterol/triglycerides for as long as I can remember. I have a strong family history of the same as well as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, alcoholism, you name it, I have it. 

In 2008 I began to eat a vegan diet. In 2014 I curtailed higher fat vegetables and oils, in 2019 I became even more strict as I began began a SOFAS free vegan diet. Salt, oil, flour, alcohol, sugar free. Of course, I've been sober for 24 years so the alcohol was really not anything new.

My numbers just wouldn't come down!  14 months ago, while I was at the clinic for my broken ankle my Dr. told me she wanted to run another cholesterol test. Arg. The numbers were higher than ever. My body is really good at creating all of the cholesterol it needs.  My Dr. was adamant that I begin statins. I respectfully disagreed with her. I have ultrarunner friends who have used statins and have had negative effects. I didn't want to go there. I wanted one more try at lowering my blood glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides. My Dr. was not agreeable. I wasn't going to fill any prescription for statins and I wasn't going to see her for another year. 

I contacted Chef AJ, who has become a SOFAS mentor to me. She suggested I contact Dr. Esselstyn at Cleveland Clinic for a consult. I couldn't believe that I could just call him up but that is exactly what I did. I  called him up and he outlined to me what I needed to do.

He told me that for at least three weekly runs I should run them as fasted. This would allow me to use the fat that was stored in my blood. I should also lengthen my fast between meals, for the same reason. He suggested I decrease the amount of starchy carbs I consumed such as potatoes, squash, peas, etc. NOT eliminate, just decrease. I should increase the amount of non starchy carbs I consume. In addition to not consuming added fat or fatty vegetables I should add 1 T of ground flax to my diet daily. This would increase my good cholesterol. No nuts, no oils, no avocadoes as usual but yes to the flax. Also I would increase my sleep by 1 hour, practice meditation, massage, yoga, etc. in order to relax and decrease my cortisol production. I was on board. 100%. 

I learned so much about myself as I began to follow these steps to lowering  my cholesterol. I learned that I have a deep mentally hurtful connection to certain foods. I broke those connections, it wasn't easy but it was doable. I was hoping the payoff would be great. I followed all of the steps he laid out for me with 100% compliance and diligence. 

Yesterday I had my mammogram, blood draw, physical, etc. I nervously awaited my blood draw results to show up in My Chart. When they did I was SO thrilled!! My numbers came down. The pay off was great. All of the steps to wellness are now habits, I will continue on this path.

My cholesterol dropped 78 points, triglycerides down 90 and glucose down 15. Yeah!

My Dr. was as excited as I. She asked a million questions while talking with me on the phone last night and has set up a Zoom meeting to discuss my lifestyle changes. She didn't think this was possible. I knew deep in  my heart that I could change this path. I'm so excited!  Now hoping all of the other annual tests come back as well as the blood draw did.

Mindy Creek Marathon

 

A few weeks ago a friend asked me to join in the fun at a brand new race,  Mindy Creek Trail Runs. There would be a half marathon and marathon on the Ice Age Trail out of St Croix Falls. I was intrigued. As I looked further into the details I learned that each race would be held to 25 people, there would be masks at the start and at aid, the aid stations would be unmanned, bottled water, prepackaged snacks and gels. It sounded really great!  I entered and waited for race day.

Race day was gorgeous. I awoke early and headed for WI. As I pulled into the lot I realized that it felt as if I had stepped back in time. There weren't miles of cars, a zillion people, an assault of the senses. It was quiet, no lines..but everyone had on a mask and that felt kind of weird at first but quickly faded into the background.

We all kept our distance at the start and listened to Jeff give us the lowdown on markers and what the covid expectations were of us. We should wear masks at aid if others were around, wait our turns, etc. Just be nice caring people! 

The course was just beautiful. There were many hills, singletrack, woods, rocks, roots; but also gently mowed grass sections, mountain bike trail, etc. It wasn't very muddy, only a few sections-a beautiful course. I only came across a few people and I felt like I was running back in time to the early 2000s when a handful of people were entering ultras and knew everyone. I didn't know all of the entrants this time around but the race held that same old time vibe. I was running along the trail and was recalling my early races-how much I loved the peace and quiet, the anonymity, the newbiness I felt of it all. I felt tears of gratitude well up into my eyes and then down my cheeks. I realized I how much I missed all of that. As much as I know we needed growth in local ultrarunning, we need new people to build the sport-I still miss the smallness of it, the intimacy of the race.  I miss those people I ran with, I miss the small entry, I miss the wide spaces without anyone else on the trail. Selfish, right? It is, I know. I still enjoyed it immensely.

I took a small detour on the first loop. I was running back toward the start and noticed the two flags to my left. There was a mountain bike trail inbetween the flags and for some reason I ran inbetween them and continued on for a mile. Oops! I realized I didn't recognize where I was and that there were no shoe tracks anywhere on the trail. I back tracked the mile and popped out back where I needed to be. Crazy.

With my extra mileage I made it back to the start in just under 3 hours, tapped the start tent and moved on back out for my final 13 miles. 

I only came across one other runner on my second loop. I filled up my hydration bladder with bottles of water at the self service aid station, grabbed a few gels and moved on. The silence of the woods overtook me, I ran along taking in the beautiful sights of rock, river, lakes, so thrilled to be right where I was. I enjoyed this race so very much. It really helped to remind me how much I enjoy aided long runs by myself in the wilderness. I don't need the races for the social stimulation but I sure enjoy them for the long run and aid. It was a blast. 

Looking forward to throwing my name into Tuscobia 80. I ran the earlier versions of the race in 2009, 2010 at the 35/50 mile distance but never the 80/160 mile. It gives me something new to try and figure out!

Jay Cooke State Park Running

Jay Cooke State Park holds so many amazing memories for me. It's the start/finish of Voyageur 50 Mile Ultramarathon. I've run the race 10 times and have grown to love it so much.  Unfortunately, last year I broke my ankle the week before the race so volunteered instead and this year it has been canceled of course, due to Covid 19.

Maria and I decided to run a long run through the park, then out on the Superior Hiking Trail yesterday. We met at the visitor center, just steps from the beautiful swinging bridge. Our plan was to run 22 ish miles by running an out and back.

Jay Cooke has trails that link up to Willard Munger State Trail and to the Superior Hiking Trail . There are over 50 miles of trail and many water accesses. There are 80 camping sights. It's so beautiful and only a 2 hour drive from the Twin Cities.

We began at 715, not another person was in the parking lot. It was quiet and wonderful. The trail was in perfect condition. The day became warm, up to 88 degrees. We each carried 60 oz in our packs and I stuck another bottle of water in my vest pocket. It wasn't enough. I was salvaging water throughout the day but would have consumed much more if able. Maria ran out as well. We could have done with another bottle, which we both had in our cars!  We survived and didn't cramp up or have any problems.

Large frogs were rustling up the leaves on the trail, we couldn't figure out what they were at first. The leaves were moving and pretty soon we noticed the large frogs. So cure. Maria led most of the way so had to deal with the sticky spider webs across her face. I was stung by a  hornet in the ankle. Typical for Voyageur!   The river was low. The views were incredible. We would stop every once in a while and just look around at the beautiful landscape. Woods, bridges, sky...I felt like I was running from the darkness and into the light. Running does that for me. It empties me out, yet fills me up. It is my jam.

It really felt good to run with another again, it's been months. We stayed apart, were outside and not in close contact. We had a blast.

As we came back into the lot we noticed that every parking spot was taken. We had only encountered 6 others all day long on the trails.

After we finished we cleaned up and sat outside of our vehicles, caught up some more, hydrated and refueled with clementines and mango black bean salad. A great way to end such a fun day!

What a glorious day and beautiful run! I feel so blessed to be healthy and out spending the day just the way I love to. Never to be taken for granted.

Mille Lacs Kathio State Park

This past week I made the decision to make an effort to run all of the Minnesota State Parks. There are 67 in my beautiful state and I can't wait to set foot into every one of them!

I ventured over to Mille Lacs Kathio State Park last week and began my quest. Kathio is an hour away from my home so I made the decision that it was OK for me to travel that far during the Minnesota Stay Safe Plan. As I pulled into the lot I noticed there was only one other car parked, that surprised and delighted me!

I had a very stressful week and realized I hadn't looked up any Kathio information before I left for the park. I once visited years before, before I had children!  It had been a while.

Checking out some of the trail map signs I saw that there were 35 miles of hiking trails so that looked like a good place to start! The trails were in great condition. The leaves were starting to open, there were signs that summer was eventually going to be arriving. Green grasses were budding, leaves and ferns were beginning to unfurl.

Running from the trail center toward Ogechie Lake I came upon two campgrounds,  the Touch The Earth Trail and then Ogechie Lake. It was beautiful, lots of rolling hills, well marked paths. I enjoyed the trails very much.  I was seeking solitude, peace and prayer and that was what I received. What a gift. Before I knew it 20 miles had passed. I was going to run the remaining 15 miles the next day.

On day 2 I knew where I was going to go. I wanted to check out the observation tower, and Black Bass Lake. Again as I pulled into the lot, nobody was there!  I was so happy!  I filled up my pack and changed into my trail shoes. Running along the trails toward Black Bass Lake it became very low and very wet. The ferns were amazing in this area and it smelled so rich - so fertile.

After draining the last of my bladder I looked down at my watch and realized three hours had passed. I was so deep in thought, I hadn't noticed time pass. I began to watch the trail signs and made my way back to toward the visitor center and the observation tower.  The tower was so cool. It is 100 feet tall and use to be a fire tower.

On the way home I stopped at Lake Mille Lacs to eat a packed breakfast of chickpeas and romaine. Yum.  I soaked my legs into the big round lake, walked around the shoreline trail and then was ready  to head on home.

I feel so blessed to be able to run for hours, in beautiful places. I do not take it for granted. I've been on the other side and know too well what that feels like. For now, I'm enjoying fully the feeling of traipsing down the trail, enjoying God's gifts.

Let's hope  that I can carry a bit of the serenity I was able to cultivate at Kathio into this next week!

Covid Continues

Well let us see, we are now 9 or so weeks into Covid territory.  My daily existence revolves around my home. I go into the office two days a week; a mere 7 mile drive. I work from home the remainder days of the week. I run out at Lake Maria State Park, 15 minutes away or run in the Wildlife Refuge, even closer to my home. I grocery shop in town, haven't ventured anywhere else. In normal times, I'd drive to Maple Grove / Minneapolis each week to run, to hit up Whole Foods and Costco. It's been 9 weeks since I've been to any of those places. I practice yoga at home, I knit at home, I bake and prepare meals at home, I garden at home.

Some restrictions have been lifted this past week.  Groups of 10 are able to gather while practicing social distancing. I won't be gathering. Clinics are taking appointments with precautions. I have an appointment June 1. I will wait at the car, check in on my phone, have my temperature taken, be escorted to the office while wearing PPE. Gyms are still not open so I'm using my home equipment which is fine. I don't see myself returning to the gym...at all. Home workouts are fine. Manufacturing plants have reopened, curbside restaurant pickup and delivery. No churches, schools, bars, concerts, etc.

We've become so divided. This has all become so political. It seems the Republicans want everything open and the Democrats want to keep it shut down. I just follow the rules. I am not taking chances. I will be as safe as I can be.

My races continue to cancel. So far the races on my schedule that I entered and were cancelled are Chippewa 50K, Grandmas Marathon, Superior 50K and Black Hills 50K. Chester Woods 50K  has been postponed to November. I'm waiting to hear on Voyager 50 Mile, Superior 50 Mile. Honestly, I prefer to have the Race Directors make the decision rather than me. If any of these races were open I probably wouldn't have attended anyway and since they are cancelled I don't have to ponder my decision making processes.  It's a good time to stay healthy, run all the miles and take advantage of all of my free time. 

I've set a goal to run all the trails of all the Minnesota State Parks, of which there are 67.  I love our state parks and there are some I have never set foot into. There are miles of trail for me to explore. What a lovely way to spend my time. I'll begin this weekend.

Covid 19 has thrown me for a loop but I am making the most of my downtime and enjoying that as much as I can.

COVID-19 Pandemic

This past week I'm wavering between a state of anxiety and denial. It feels like I am in the middle of a Margaret Atwood dystopian novel, but, make no mistake, COVID-19 is very real. 

Our state, our nation, our world is reeling. Too many have died and too many are sick. COVID-19 has branched out to every state and almost every country. 

I feel as though living in Minnesota is a pretty good place to be during this time. I am not getting into politics but do have to say that our  Governor seems to have our best interests in mind and tells us the hard truth, that things are difficult and doesn't white wash anything. He closed down schools and businesses pretty early into this pandemic.  He doesn't want to reopen until we can test and test thoroughly. We have some of the best  medical, manufactures and food companies world with Mayo, University of Minnesota, 3M, Medtronic, General Mills, Land O Lakes, Hormel. We are getting along.  I feel like we as a population follow our Governors' direction. We hunker down, we take social distancing seriously. I feel like we can do this. It won't be done without out grave loss.

Grocery stores near me are still being fully stocked each night. I haven't seen bare shelving. I think that because I live in small rural community our grocers haven't had the mad rush on products that the stores only 30 miles away have had. The only thing I have not been able to find is yeast, so I ordered a two pound brick from Amazon. Yes, I have plenty of toilet paper. My local mill is still grinding whole grain organic flour. 

I am not a social butterfly. I stay at home, I run alone, I enjoy time by myself. This shelter in place has taken away my weekly run with Amy, my yoga teacher training class and numerous races. I know that Amy and I will resume our weekly run, I know that yoga teacher training class will resume and races will come back next year.  I haven't had to change my schedule too much. I've realized again that I don't run to race. I race to force myself out of myself. I dislike packet pick up, the large crowed and chit chat. I dislike the crowds at the start and the finish. People feed my anxiety.  I enjoy the time from crossing the start line to crossing the finish line.  I enjoy the hours in-between. I don't mind the cancellations. I feel for the race directors, for their livelihoods. 

I feel like I have practiced social distancing my whole life. 

My down time is spent running, practicing yoga, baking  breads, reading, watching too much CNN and knitting. Instead of going from one of my hobbies at a time to another I am practicing them all, all of the time. I've been able to keep busy, to run long miles. I'm training as if I were still running a 50M in a few weeks, alas, it is cancelled. That's OK. I enjoy the time running alone. It brings me peace during this not peaceful time.

Hang in there. We can do this. 

I'm going to bake my way through Bread Baking Apprentice. I haven't picked it up in a few years and probably only baked a quarter of the breads. It brings back such good memories. The boys would pick out a bread a week for me to bake. I recall Tyler's favorite was the salami and cheese boule, Troy's favorite-caramel rolls. I looked at my notes throughout the book and the last one I wrote was from 2008.  Gosh, 12 years. Crazy. 

Stay healthy. Stay strong. Stay patient. We will get on the other side of this.

Northwoods Winter Trail Marathon

Back at it!

I was hoping I'd be back in running shape before January hit so that I could again run the Northwoods Winter Trail Marathon. Last year it was warm and soggy, post-holing through deep snow.  This year it was beautifully firm snow, perfect conditions, 25F and no wind. What a treat!

I made my way to the trail at a leisurely 800 AM Saturday morning. It was fun to help Andy out with setting up the race start, filling aid station jugs of water, assembling age group win awards and doing whatever I could to assist. There was plenty of time.

The course was absolutely beautiful. Stunning views of the river, running along it for miles, the views of the city from Hawk Ridge, frozen waterfalls, it is really spectacular. 

My ankle felt solid, my body strong and my heart filled with joy. I had an amazing day. I never felt tired or bored or like I wanted to quit. A  marathon is a joyous distance to feel nothing but happiness, to be out in the woods long enough but not too long. I wasn't wet, I wasn't cold, I was comfortable. I wasn't pushing my limits, I was strolling along, taking in all of the beauty that the Duluth trails offer. 

I finished the race 45 minutes faster than last year at 5:45. Like last year I won the 50-59 age group. No pain, all gain. It was a good test to my current level of fitness after breaking my ankle and I'm so happy that I am in a good place. I have a good base of fitness and don't seem to have lost anything after spending 12 weeks without very much movement.

Today I find myself wondering why I even want to run longer than 50K distance? Do I even want to push myself? Why would I want to be in pain and have to recover the next few days?  Perhaps I just stick to 50K again. I don't know. I still find myself thinking I'll put in for Superior 50 Miler. There were be pain and suckage but at least it is not the 100. Did I say that? Hmmm..interesting how my perspective may be changing, at least at this moment.

Yeah, I'll put in for the 50 Miler at Superior. I feel great. 

On the Come Back Trail!

I ran my  longest run since breaking my ankle last July: 10 miles. WOOHOO!  Sure feels good. Man, how I have missed you, running.

Looking forward to the Northwoods Winter Snowshoe Marathon in January.

Healing

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Healing-it seems to be a constant in my running life. Healing from morton’s neuroma surgery, healing from broken ankles, healing from fractures, healing from all of the overuse injuries of tendonitis and inflammation.  Well, here I am again, healing from another broken ankle.

Mid July I was out for a short 4 mile run preparing for Voyageur 50 Mile Trail Run. As I was happily running through the 95F heat and humidity in the bright afternoon sun and being devoured by deer flies, I stepped into a hole. It was covered by long grass and I never even saw it. I had run this path 10000s of times.  I felt my leg collapse and my foot went deep into the 8” hole. I heard my ankle pop and everything went black as I fell to the ground. A deer fly bit me in the lip as I lay upon the ground, wondering what the hell just happened.

After a few minutes I tried to get up and fell back down. I waited a few more minutes. The deer flies were everywhere, I had to get back up. I made my way vertical and hobbled out the ankle, looking at the immediate swelling. I was 4 miles from my car. I tried to run out of there. Ugh. Voyageur in 10 days and Superior 100 in a few months -  that  is all that I could think about.

Had I been warned throughout the  year that this was going to happen: my sudden cold turning into double pneumonia, unable to attend Three Days of Syllamo, unable to run Black Hills 50 M as dad was hospitalized the night before? I was healthy and in great shape, I thought.  Now not running Voyageur? Eventually not running Superior 100?  Not running Surph the Murph. All of the entries I had purchased. I’m so good at ignoring warnings. Unfortunately.  When I thought about the warnings they became so clear: weakness in my ankles, hobbling down the stairs, ignoring the pain of yet another neuroma, nerve pain and numbness in both feet, unable to bend my knees past 90 degrees, cutting open my shoes to allow more room for inflammation.  Same old. Again. Crossing that line. 

I had told myself I didn't want to be afraid of becoming injured. I told myself that I had stayed true to the 50K plan the previous year. I ran 6 50Ks, never going over that distance. I told myself I no longer wanted to 'fear' 100 mile training, I just needed to do it again. It had been a few years since my last finish. 

Azitala Yoga

Volunteering @ Voyageur instead of running

I went to the clinic a few days later and learned I had in fact broke the bone. I was put into a boot for 10 weeks. No weight bearing exercise, no driving ( not able to volunteer at Superior 100) no swimming, no biking. I was able to sit and practice chair yoga and to sit and work upper body in the weight room. That was it.  I learned patience. I found myself back to a daily yoga practice, mediation, journaling, volunteering at races, church and prayer.

Boreal Bliss Yoga Retreat photo

Now 4 months out from my injury I am able to practice yoga daily without pain, I can lift and run. I am running 3 times a week: my Monday evening run with Heather and Amy, a solo run Saturday and Sunday, not more than 6 miles at a time. I find that this is enough for now. The distance will come. I am lifting 3-4 times weekly, putting on muscle. I am going to Yoga Teacher Training beginning in January to April and May to October.  I went to the Boreal Bliss Yoga Retreat a few weeks ago, it was SO wonderful. 

I am taking each day as it comes, grateful to God that I am healing, grateful that I am again healthy. 

Superior 50K

I last ran the Superior 50K in 2013!  I can’t believe that 6 years have passed. I then went on to run Superior 100 in September of 2014. I have not done any training or running on the Superior Hiking Trail since. I have volunteered by marking, sweeping and working the aid stations but no running or training. The SHT is like nothing else that I train on. 

I went up north early and spent a lot of time hiking the north shore.  Gooseberry Falls, Crosby Manitou,  Cascade River, Bally Creek, Grand Marais,  I had a blast.  I really enjoy time in the woods by myself.

Friday I made my way to Caribou Highlands. I had a great lodge room with a window seat overlooking the finish area. I could watch people mingle about for check in.  I walked over and picked up my bib, visited with friends, had a fun time.

Race day morning was cool but dry. 31F so I wore tights, long sleeve top, gloves and packed my windbreaker. I filled my pack with 60 oz of tailwind, gels and a few advil. I was hoping the rain that was forecast would hold off.

John started us off and away we went, running down the short asphalt stretch to the beauty of the trail. We were clustered up, 200 of us trying to find our place.  Climbing right away, navigating the rock and roots reminded me of what this portion of trail was like during a race. I had to slow down a bit, catch my breath, let others pass and collect myself.  I was finding my pace.

I came into Oberg Aid Station 7.5 miles at 1:40. I didn’t need  anything from the station, just the smiles and high fives. I ran through, thanking all of the volunteers. It felt good to run fast through the flat parking lot! 

The climbs were no longer taking a toll on me, I seemed to become more strong as I went along. I wasn’t having any pain, no tiredness or anxiety. I was pushing it as fast as I dared to push without tripping or getting hung up in the mud.  There was a lot of mud.  I found that I was holding back. I don’t quite have the confidence back to let loose on the trail and really run hard.

I came into the second aid station as hail began to pelt me. I couldn’t stop laughing. What else is one going to do? I had my wind breaker in my pack but didn’t feel like pulling it out.  I ran through the aid station, not needing anything, toward the turn around.

As I was climbing up the mountain I ran into Amy Clark, whom I’ve been running  with each Monday since December. It was so great to get a big huge smile and hug from her. She was coming down the mountain with her friend, Erin, whom I hadn’t met before. I felt a real boost as I continued to climb.

The turnaround was a blast, of course. Hail pounding all around me, festive volunteers offering twinkies  and fireball (no thanks). I had a few laughs and began my trek to the finish line.  3:36 to the half way mark. Could I finish in 715?

As I came into the next aid station I decided to fill my pack. More tailwind, emptied out my gel foils. I was ready to move. I spent less than 2 minutes getting ready.  As I left the aid station I noticed that the mud was pulling my sock down into my shoe. My sock was so heavy and wet that it wasn’t staying up on my ankle;  it kept falling down. Although I was wearing gaiters me  feet were still covered with mud and it was grinding between my shoe and ankle. This was  causing friction and pain. Dang. I didn’t want to stop to try to deal with this. How was I going to make it better? I didn’t have any other socks, I hadn’t packed any drop bags. I didn’t have anything to make this situation any better…so I just continued to run, hoping for the best but figuring a painful blister was forming. Hmm. A blister might keep me from my 4 and 5 h our runs Saturday and Sunday. I don’t want that. Hmm..well, keep running. I will buy longer socks in the future, that is for sure!  This rookie mistake caused negative space into my brain which I didn’t need. I began to ignore the growing blister and ran on.

As I came into Oberg I was still feeling so great.  I hadn’t had any lows , no crashes, I was steadily moving along. I cruised over Mystery and Moose mountain without any problem. My neuroma were quiet, I was so blessed. 

I thought about the Superior 100 in 4 short months  and then this thought gave me anxiety. Man, I need to begin to wrap my head around that race again.  I’ve finished 3 of the Superior 100’s, the last one in 2014. It was the muddiest of years and I almost quit at one point. I don’t believe that anything can be as difficult as that race was for me, which makes me feel OK about any other attempts.  Any other attempts just can’t be as difficult as 2014 was.

I realized that I didn’t think I’d ever run on this trail again. This is a rough trail and I was in no shape to run it just a short year ago. Now, here I was, sailing through, feeling like I could push it, yet afraid to. 

Afraid of what? Afraid that I might fall. Or that I might hurt myself. Afraid that I might become tired or low on energy. Um, afraid to stretch out of my comfort zone. So many fears that I can over come.

Before I knew it I was on the pavement, ready for the finish line. I felt a twinge of sorrow as I wasn’t quite ready to be finished with this grand adventure. I then ran around the pool, into the finish line. I was greeted by an explosion of clapping and yelling of my name, photos and hugs. It was amazing.

7:18 First Women's Grand Master. Almost an even split. 

A few days after the race and I am back to 100% I believe that soaking in a cold bath helped decrease the inflammation. I no longer binge post race on sugary items. Post race I eat as I do any other time.  I walked Sunday and Monday. Tuesday I ran for thirty minutes and today I’ll run for 45 minutes. I have back to back long runs this weekend. 4 hours Saturday and 5 hours Sunday. I’m working toward a 50 mile finish at Black Hills, where I ran the 50K last year. I’m getting there. I am back and I couldn’t be happier about that!